I was listening to one of my favorite actresses the other day as she discussed the compromises and negotiations artists make to “get to the top.”  She talked about some of the regrets she had from doing things she shouldn’t have done in exchange for riches and approval. 

This success, however, left her feeling like a “slave to the industry.”  She was tied to contracts and compromises to remain “relevant.”

Did you know, that to God, you are always relevant? And because he has made us free, we no longer have to commit to a lifestyle of sin…no matter how long we’ve been in it.

In John 8:34-36, Jesus addressed the Jews concerning his ability to give freedom. He said, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (NIV) 

Jesus’ words still apply to us today. True freedom comes from following Jesus. By filtering life through God’s Word, we are growing our faith and freeing our ourselves from having to mimic what’s presented by pop culture. We are free to be exactly who God says we are. 

His Word also serves as a blueprint that shows us how to overcome obstacles and still have access to what we need and enjoy.

This is the type of success we should strive for each day. One where we are free and not subject to contracts and sinful behavior that leads to regret. In this place, we are guaranteed peace with God as he provides all that we’ll ever need.

“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalms 37:4 NIV)